This paper examines the main issues in hypermedia navigation, proposes research questions, and suggests a methodology for resolving those questions. The paper begins with an overview of navigation and a discussion of design issues in hypermedia databases, including being lost in hyperspace, the use of hypermaps, proper balance between links and nodes, level of learner control, and learning theories implemented in hypermedia applications research questions addressing the following design considerations for hypermedia databases are outlined: (1) screen layout; (2) use of color; (3) use of hypermaps or other locational devices; (4) degree of consistency to use in the design of navigation; (5) types of pathways for transit; (6) level of user control; (7) use of a help function; and (8) relationship between the learning styles of users and the navigational controls. A methodology for proposed research on hypermedia navigation is then presented; the proposed research will utilize the Perseus Project, a 10-year-old Harvard University interactive database on Greek Civilization, to examine whether hypermedia databases created in the past can be significantly improved by introducing navigational features that currently are advocated by hypermedia designers. Three figures depicting the Perseus system are included. (Contains 37 references.) (DLS)